The U.S. Mission to South Africa has advised U.S. citizens to exercise caution when arranging ground transportation from OR Tambo Airport in Johannesburg to hotels, guesthouses and residences.
The mission said numerous U.S. citizens and other travelers have been robbed at gunpoint while traveling from the airport to their lodgings in what are known as "follow home" robberies. In some instances, U.S. citizens have been injured or shot at during these robberies.
The mission said in a statement: "U.S. citizens should avoid nighttime arrival flights to OR Tambo International Airport. No form of transportation from the airport is considered completely secure and risk-free. Travelers should exercise caution at all times when departing the airport. Travelers should also avoid changing money or utilizing ATMs at the airport and avoid displaying expensive jewelry, watches or luggage while traveling."
South Africa's police minister said he has approved a detailed tactical security plan for the airport. "We have a formidable and highly implementable plan in place for this airport," said Fikile Mbalula.
A number of airport employees have been suspended amid allegations of corruption and collusion, with further suspensions and disciplinary procedures still possible. All staff working in the airport will also be vetted beginning this week, said Mbalula.
Furthermore, a centralized and integrated control room will be constructed over the next few months, additional security and police officers will be deployed in routes to and from the airport precinct, and CCTV cameras have been installed in strategic areas in and around the airport.
"The plan is not merely an intervention but a long-term implementable plan," the police minister said.